Paralympian Dan inspires youngsters at Fishtoft

Lucky children had the chance to hold an Olympic medal when champion Dan Greaves visited Fishtoft Academy.

More than 70 youngsters aged 4-11, along with awe-struck teachers, listened as Discus-thrower Dan gave an inspirational chat.

The athlete, who was born with a deformity in his feet, won gold in the Athens Paralympic Games in 2004 and silver in the London 2012 Paralympic Games. It was the silver medal that he brought in to show the children. He has also represented Great Britain in the non-disabled competitions and will be competing in the forthcoming Commonwealth Games later this month.

The talk was organised by head of school Holly Barrett and sports coach Zoe Myall, of Give It Some Fizz, in a bid to keep the Olympic legacy alive and as part of the school’s sport programme.

Miss Barrett said: “This was a wonderful opportunity for the children and staff to meet an incredibly inspirational and successful Olympian and Paralympian. He taught the children to believe in themselves and work hard to achieve their dreams. Following his talk, Dan achieved a personal best throw in a tournament that evening.”